Lightning Flashes Over Southeastern Florida Coast During Thunderstorm

Photographer Captures Stunning Images of Storm

In one image, a bolt of lightning illuminates the sky above the ocean, with the silhouette of a palm tree in the foreground. In another, lightning strikes the sand, sending up a shower of sparks. The bright flashes of lightning contrasted sharply with the dark clouds and rain-swept landscape.

Storm Brings Heavy Rain, Strong Winds

The thunderstorm brought heavy rain and strong winds to the southeastern Florida coast. The National Weather Service reported that some areas received more than 6 inches of rain in a short period of time. The high winds caused power outages and downed trees.

Residents Urged to Stay Safe

The National Weather Service urged residents to stay safe during the storm. They advised people to stay indoors and away from windows. They also warned against driving through flooded areas.

Additional Safety Tips

• If you are caught outside during a thunderstorm, seek shelter in a sturdy building or vehicle.
• Stay away from tall objects, such as trees and power lines.
• Do not swim or wade in floodwaters.
• If you see a downed power line, stay away from it and call 911.

The Aftermath

After the storm passed, residents began to assess the damage. Some homes and businesses were damaged by the high winds and flooding. Crews worked to clear downed trees and restore power to the affected areas.

Photographer's Perspective

Photographer Paul M. Smith ventured out into the storm to capture the stunning images. He said he wanted to show the beauty and power of nature. "I wanted to capture the raw energy of the storm," he said. "I wanted to show people the beauty that can be found even in the most dangerous of weather conditions."

Photographer's Tips

• Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and prevent blurry images.
• Set your camera to a high ISO to allow for faster shutter speeds.
• Use a wide-angle lens to capture as much of the storm as possible.
• Be patient and wait for the perfect moment to capture the shot.